NBA Trade Rumors: Jonas Valanciunas Shuts Down Europe Rumors, Commits to Nuggets After Trade
Amid swirling speculation about a possible move to Europe, veteran center Jonas Valanciunas has reaffirmed his commitment to the Denver Nuggets for the 2025-26 NBA season.
In an exclusive interview with BasketNews’ Donatas Urbonas, Valančiūnas cleared the air on his intentions:
“The idea of playing for Panathinaikos, closer to home, was very exciting to me, but that will have to wait. I am fully committed to honoring my contract with the Nuggets this season and will give it my all to compete for a championship.”
Valančiūnas, 33, was recently traded to Denver from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dario Šarić, sparking rumors that the Lithuanian big man might pursue a lucrative offer from Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos. Reports suggested the club was prepared to offer him a three-year, $36 million deal — a significant figure compared to his current NBA contract.
However, Denver quickly shut down any notions of a buyout. Nuggets executive VP Ben Tenzer told DNVR Nuggets’ Brendan Vogt there were “no concerns” regarding Valančiūnas' commitment:
“Nothing but healthy conversations about him honoring his contract and him excited to be a Denver Nugget.”
According to CBS Sports’ Cody Nagel, Denver made it clear that Valančiūnas would remain under team control for the next two years at a combined $20 million. The veteran center has accepted the team’s decision and is focused on contributing behind MVP Nikola Jokić in the Nuggets' pursuit of a second NBA championship.
Jonas Valanciunas, entering his 14th NBA season, averaged 10.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last year. He brings experience, size, and post presence to a Denver bench that is hungry to regain its championship form after falling short in the 2025 playoffs.
Despite the allure of a return to Europe, Valančiūnas made one thing clear: he’s all-in with Denver.
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